Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted

Steps:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Add Melted Chocolate: Fold in the melted dark chocolate until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Frost: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with your favorite chocolate ganache or buttercream.

Calories per serving (approximate): 400 kcal

Note: Customize frosting and decoration based on personal preferences.